Heal Yourself Surrounded by Rich Nature! 5 Recommended Tourist Spots Around Uchibune Onsen, Yamanashi Prefecture

Here are five recommended sightseeing spots around Uchibune Onsen in Nanbu Town, Yamanashi Prefecture. Uchibune Onsen is an attractive hot spring area known for its simple and rustic atmosphere. It is popular as a hidden tourist destination and is ideal for enjoying nature to the fullest. There are also many sites where you can feel the history of Uchibune Onsen, roadside stations where you can enjoy delicious food, and many other attractions. Feel the charm of Uchibune Onsen and its surrounding spots.

1. Lake Tenshi

Lake Tenshi (Tenshiko) is an artificial lake created by damming the Sanogawa River. The scenery created by the lake and the surrounding nature is beautiful, and in autumn, the trees turn red, orange, and yellow, offering stunning autumn foliage. Many visitors come every year to enjoy the vibrant colors. The reflection of the trees on the lake surface is as beautiful as a painting.
If you want to be embraced by beautiful nature or feel the fresh air to your heart’s content while visiting Uchibune Onsen, this is the place for you. Make sure to visit when you come to Uchibune Onsen.

2. Saionji Temple

Saionji Temple is said to have been founded around the 1040s. When it was first built, it existed in Uchibune Onsen as a Tendai Buddhist temple. During the Muromachi period, it became a Rinzai Buddhist temple, and it continues to be cherished by many people today. The Buddha Hall is designated as an Important Cultural Property and is definitely worth seeing. You can observe architectural elements of the Kantō Zen style seen in medieval times.
In addition, the “Silk Painting of Anayama Katsuchiyo” (Kenpon Chakushoku Anayama Katsuchiyo Gazō) is designated as a Cultural Property by Yamanashi Prefecture. There are many places where you can directly feel its cultural value. This spot is highly recommended for those who want to “learn” or “experience” the history and culture of Uchibune Onsen. Be sure to visit.

3. Roadside Station Tomizawa

“Roadside Station Tomizawa” is located along National Route 52. The reason it attracts so many visitors is its giant bamboo shoot monument.
This giant bamboo shoot is the symbol of Roadside Station Tomizawa, which was built as the first roadside station in Yamanashi Prefecture. Amazingly, around 200,000 tourists use this location annually as a stop during their travels.
You can buy fresh vegetables and seasonal ingredients from around Uchibune Onsen, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs as well. Enjoy the local specialties of the Uchibune Onsen area during your visit.

4. Mount Shiratori Forest Park

Mount Shiratori, selected as one of Yamanashi’s Top 100 Mountains, is a park where you can fully enjoy the beautiful and grand nature of Uchibune Onsen. The area near the summit is a forest park popular among many visitors. From the forest park, you can enjoy a sweeping view of the vast natural scenery. There are also well-maintained walking paths, making it a great place to enjoy forest bathing and spend a relaxing, peaceful time.
The majestic view of Mount Fuji impresses all who see it. It is also selected as one of the “100 Best Mt. Fuji Views in the Kanto Region.” Enjoy a romantic time surrounded by beautiful nature.

5. Fukushigawa Valley

Flowing from the mountains of the Southern Alps, Fukushigawa River creates the beautiful tourist spot known as “Fukushigawa Valley.” It is recommended for those who want to enjoy forest bathing surrounded by lush nature. You can enjoy mountain stream fishing, admire the beautiful scenery, and spend your time in different ways here. A leisurely walk along the Tokai Nature Trail will bring you to Nanatsugama Falls, where its beauty will soothe your mind. During autumn, the colorful leaves create a spectacular landscape.
If you want to be surrounded by beautiful nature or enjoy the fresh air of Uchibune Onsen, this is a must-visit spot.

◎ Summary

Uchibune Onsen and its surrounding areas offer numerous attractive sightseeing spots—places where you can directly experience beautiful nature, sites where you can learn about the history and culture of Uchibune Onsen, and parks where you can spend a relaxing time. And above all, you can enjoy magnificent views of Mount Fuji. Please take a trip to Uchibune Onsen and explore its wonderful attractions.